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Dear fellow sweet-toothed enthusiasts, today I’m thrilled to share a recipe that’s as fun to make as it is to eat! The Twinkie Pineapple Cake is a dessert that promises to dazzle your taste buds and bring a smile to your face. I’m truly grateful to have such a wonderful community with whom I can share this delightful treat. It’s a heartfelt thanks to each of you for your continued support and enthusiasm that fuels my passion for exploring these unique culinary creations!
Ingredients
- 9 Twinkies, halved lengthwise
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, lightly drained
- 2 cups milk
- 1 package (3.4 oz) vanilla instant pudding
- 1 pint heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp coconut extract
- 2 cups toasted shredded coconut
- Maraschino cherries (optional, for decoration)
How to Make
- Prepare the Base: Arrange the Twinkie halves, cream side up, in a 9×13-inch baking dish to create a snug, fluffy base.
- Pineapple Layer: Spread the lightly drained crushed pineapple evenly over the Twinkie layer, letting the juice seep into the cakes.
- Pudding Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the milk and vanilla pudding mix until smooth. Pour this over the pineapple layer.
- Whipped Cream Topping: In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and coconut extract. Beat until stiff peaks form. Spread this lusciously creamy layer over the pudding.
- Final Touch: Sprinkle the toasted shredded coconut over the top for a delightful crunch. Garnish with maraschino cherries if desired.
Helpful Tips
- Toasting Coconut: For an extra flavor boost, toast your coconut until golden brown before sprinkling it on the cake. This enhances its nutty flavor and adds a wonderful texture contrast.
- Serving: Chill the cake for at least 4 hours before serving to allow the layers to set, making it easier to slice.
Substitutions/Variations
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk and dairy-free whipped topping to accommodate lactose intolerant guests.
- Flavor Twist: Mix some rum extract into your pineapple layer for a tropical kick, or swap the vanilla pudding for coconut flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this a day ahead? Yes! It actually tastes better when the flavors have more time to meld together overnight.
- What’s the best way to store leftovers? Keep it covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
Storage Instructions
Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It’s perfect for making ahead for any gathering or a sweet treat throughout the week!
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Twinkie Pineapple Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration in a dish! Anything but boring, this cake is guaranteed to be a hit at your next party or during a cozy family dinner. I’m kicking myself for not having shot this delightful recipe sooner, because the smell when this is in the oven—or rather, when you’re assembling it—is incredible!! Thank you for joining me in this culinary adventure, and remember, the best dishes are made not just with ingredients, but with love. Enjoy every bite, and keep experimenting with joy!
Print- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Dive into the whimsical world of Twinkie Pineapple Cake, where classic Twinkies meet the tropical zing of pineapple, all enveloped in a creamy, dreamy whipped topping. This cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a joyous celebration of flavors that’s sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face!
Ingredients
9 Twinkies, halved lengthwise
1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, lightly drained
2 cups milk
1 package (3.4 oz) vanilla instant pudding
1 pint heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp coconut extract
2 cups toasted shredded coconut
Maraschino cherries (optional, for decoration)
Instructions
Base Layer: Arrange Twinkie halves, cream side up, in a 9×13-inch dish.
Pineapple Layer: Evenly spread the crushed pineapple over Twinkies.
Pudding Layer: Whisk milk with pudding mix and pour over pineapple.
Creamy Topping: Whip cream with powdered sugar, vanilla, and coconut extracts until stiff peaks form, then spread over pudding.
Garnish: Sprinkle with toasted coconut and decorate with cherries if desired.
Notes
Enhance the coconut flavor by toasting the shredded coconut until golden brown.
Chill for at least 4 hours before serving to let the cake set properly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (no bake)
- Category: Desserts
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg